In a breathtaking display of power-hitting, Indian all-rounder Hardik Pandya single-handedly turned a precarious situation into a match-winning performance for Baroda in the Vijay Hazare Trophy. Pandya's blistering century, which included a remarkable over where he hit five sixes, dismantled the Vidarbha bowling attack and secured a memorable victory for his side.
Pandya's One-Man Rescue Act
The match, played on January 3, 2026, seemed to be slipping away from Baroda early on. Vidarbha's bowlers had taken firm control, reducing Baroda to a shaky 71 for five at one stage. The situation didn't improve drastically, as the team found itself at 136 for six in the first half of their innings, staring at a below-par total.
Enter Hardik Pandya. Walking in when the team was under immense pressure, the star all-rounder launched a ferocious counter-attack. He took particular liking to one unfortunate bowler, smashing five consecutive sixes in a single over, completely shifting the momentum of the game. This assault was the catalyst for Baroda's remarkable recovery.
A Knock of Pure Dominance
Pandya's innings was not just about that one over; it was a sustained exhibition of clean hitting. He went on to score a magnificent 133 runs, a knock that was decorated with 11 massive sixes and 8 fours. His ability to find the boundary at will took the game away from Vidarbha, who had no answer to his onslaught.
The innings showcased Pandya's full range of shots, combining brute force with intelligent placement. It served as a potent reminder of his match-winning capabilities in the 50-over format, especially when his team is in trouble.
Turning the Tables on Vidarbha
Thanks almost entirely to Pandya's heroics, Baroda managed to post a competitive total that seemed improbable at the halfway mark of their batting innings. The psychological blow of the five-six over and the relentless attack that followed clearly impacted Vidarbha's chase.
This innings is a significant boost for Pandya, especially in the context of domestic cricket, proving his fitness and form. For Baroda, it was a victory snatched from the jaws of defeat, orchestrated by one of the most explosive cricketers in the modern game. The win provides crucial momentum in the prestigious Vijay Hazare Trophy tournament.
